What is the process of Brick Restoration?

Process of Brick Restoration

In today’s modern world where you can reach the Moon and Mars and find the cure to the most complex diseases, repairing a broken brick may not seem like much, but it’s a wonder in itself. This wonder is causing the architecture of Great Britain to be preserved and retained in its original glory. This process is mostly seen in Britain due to the fact that most of the classic architecture belongs to the UK. We still see buildings from the Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian times, which require repairs and restoration due to damage incurred from weather conditions. The process followed is quite straightforward. The damaged brick is sent to a lab to identify the original contents used to create it. The mortar is recreated with a similar colour and the broken parts of the brick are rebuilt. Most often than not brick restoration experts find that the buildings have been painted with modern paints or mortar has been used that does not match the original mortar which is the main cause of all of their problems. In this case, the original paints need to be removed and then the process of brick restoration is initiated. Restoring bricks also includes removal of any other substances such as algae, debris, soot, etc from the brick facade. The use of harsh abrasives and excessive use of water is strictly prohibited. Using cement based products instead of the original lime mortar is considered to be the most damaging of all practices and the experts strictly advise against it.

Traditional tools and natural materials used while making the old brick is taken into consideration while carrying out the brick restoration. Sometimes the extent of brick damage is revealed when the property is set up for brickwork cleaning. Just by the removal of the soot and dirt the amount of damage can be evident. Most experts admit that while carrying out the brick restoration it is extremely important to ensure that the bricks breathe after they are restored or it can cause additional problems like dampness if not done correctly. A brick restored house often looks more attractive and is of great value on the market than one that has issues of broken, unkempt bricks. Brick Pointing is a part of the brick restoration and though considered expensive is vital for the longevity of the property. In the process of brick pointing the damaged bricks are “racked out” and restored with original matching brick.